HESI RN Exit Exam 2023 Capstone Related

Review HESI RN Exit Exam 2023 Capstone related questions and content

Prior to surgery, written consent must be obtained. What is the nurse's legal responsibility with regard to obtaining written consent?

  • A. Witness the consent and sign the form as a witness
  • B. Inform the client of alternatives to the procedure
  • C. Explain the procedure in detail to the client
  • D. Determine that the surgical consent form has been signed and is included in the client's record
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The nurse's legal responsibility is to ensure that informed consent has been obtained by verifying that the client has signed the form and that it is included in the record. Witnessing the consent and signing as a witness is not the nurse's role, as this is typically done by a neutral party. Informing the client of alternatives to the procedure and explaining the procedure in detail are responsibilities of the healthcare provider performing the surgery, not the nurse.